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Inca Trail To Machu Picchu

5 reviews

48 hrs

From

1.161.398 ARS

This concise tour offers a glimpse of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu without the need for extended days of hiking and camping. It is one of our briefest treks to the ancient city of Machu Picchu.

Ideal for those eager to experience this unique journey without committing to several days on the trail, you will be captivated by stunning landscapes and discover how this classic Inca trail linked the entire Incan Empire.

Hiking the Inca trail is the ultimate way to embrace the Cusco adventure!

Tour Description

Day 1: Cusco - WiñayWayna - Machu Picchu

Begin your journey by being picked up from your hotel in Cusco and transported to the Ollantaytambo train station in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Enjoy a scenic train ride for about an hour until you arrive at kilometer 104, which marks the starting point of the Inca trail trek.

It's hiking time! Embark on a three-hour trek to the Inca site of Wiñay Wayna (`Forever Young`). Along the way, immerse yourself in the stunning flora and fauna, including vizcachas, spectacled bears, and various bird species, while enjoying a box lunch.

Merge onto the path leading to Machu Picchu in the Andean mountains, continuing your journey to `Inti Punku` (`Sun Gate`). From this vantage point, witness your first awe-inspiring panoramic view of the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu. Proceed down the final stretch of the trail to reach the ancient city. On this day, you'll trek a total of 7.4 miles, approximately a 6-hour journey.

Before arriving at Machu Picchu, you'll take a detour off the trail to descend to Aguas Calientes, saving your visit to Machu Picchu for the following day. In Aguas Calientes, enjoy dinner and a well-earned rest to recharge for the next day's adventure.

Day 2: Machu Picchu Tour – Return Train to Cusco

After breakfast, board a bus to Machu Picchu. Delight in a 2-hour guided walking tour and then take the opportunity to explore the site independently.

Marvel at this extraordinary wonder of the world as you stroll through its streets, squares, and main areas, gaining insights from our guided tour. If you wish, you can also ascend the peaks of Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu (optional). The climb to the summit takes about 45 minutes.

The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, discovered by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911, has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. It is situated in the province of Urubamba, nestled between the Andean mountains and the Amazon jungle.

After your exploration, return to Aguas Calientes by bus and catch the train back to Ollantaytambo station. From there, travel to your Cusco hotel with our convenient tourist transport.

What’s included?

What’s included:

* Train Expedition round trip ticket (Classic service) * One way Train Expedition and one way Train Vistadome (Comfort Service) * Guided tour in Spanish and English   * Entrance fee to Machu Picchu Sanctuary * Box lunch and dinner on Day 1 * First aid kit * Bus up and down tickets to citadel (included only in the comfort service) * Transfer hotel / train station / hotel  * 1 night of accommodation at Aguas Calientes with breakfast included (Classic Service 3*, comfort service 4*) * Briefing a day before the trekking starts * 1 liter of water per person on day 1

What’s NOT included:

* Walking sticks * Gratuities * Travel insurance * Food and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary * Entrance ticket to the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from May to September: mostly clear days, 18–22°C (64–72°F), and cool nights around 0–5°C (32–41°F) at Andean campsites. During the rainy season (November to March), there is more precipitation and the trails can be slippery; the classic Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance. October and April are transitional months with a good balance between weather and visitor numbers. For this trekking excursion in Peru, pack layers of clothing, a waterproof jacket, and sunscreen, as the Andean weather is variable. Booking in advance is essential during peak season due to high demand.

Most Inca Trail tour packages include: a bilingual official guide, Inca Trail permits, entrance to Machu Picchu, ground transportation from Cusco to the starting point, porters for shared equipment, tents, basic sleeping mats, and meals during the trek. Often, the Machu Picchu–Aguas Calientes bus and return train to Ollantaytambo, with final transfer to Cusco, are also included. Typically not included are: sleeping bag, trekking poles, travel insurance, tips, bottled drinks, extra snacks, lunch in Aguas Calientes, and pre-/post-tour accommodations. Verify the exact details with the travel agency before confirming your booking.

The classic Inca Trail is a moderately to strenuous trek: approximately 42–45 km over 4 days/3 nights, with elevation changes, sections of Inca staircases, and high passes. The highest point is Abra Warmiwañusqa (approx. 4,215 m above sea level). Good physical condition is recommended, and 2–3 days of acclimatization in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek are advisable. Training for elevation gain and cardio is highly beneficial. Altitude sickness can be prevented with hydration, a steady pace, light meals, and rest. The reward includes breathtaking Andean views, archaeological sites, and entry to Machu Picchu at sunrise—an iconic Peruvian travel experience.

Permits for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are limited and sell out quickly, especially during peak season (May–September). Daily quotas include tourists, guides, and porters, so it's vital to book 4–6 months in advance; during off-peak months, 2–3 months may suffice. The permit is issued in your name, linked to your valid passport, non-transferable, and subject to very restricted changes due to park regulations. Entry is not permitted without an authorized agency and guide. Remember that the classic route closes in February. Have your personal information ready and make your payment promptly to secure your spot on this tour.

For this trek to Machu Picchu, bring: your original passport, a 30–40 L daypack, waterproof trekking boots, a sleeping bag (comfort rating approximately -5°C), layered clothing (base layer, fleece, waterproof jacket), a rain poncho, a hat, thin gloves, technical socks, and camping sandals. Also bring trekking poles with rubber tips, a headlamp, a power bank, a 2 L water bottle or bladder with water filter or tablets, sunscreen, insect repellent, a personal first-aid kit, wet wipes, and toiletries. Pack energy snacks and some cash in soles for tips and extra expenses. The porter will usually carry a duffel bag with a weight limit depending on the tour plan you booked.

Questions

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Traveler Class

Single Couple With friends Family

Cost Level

Average

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Type of Activity

Hiking & Trekking Train ride Birding

Cancellation Policy

General terms

Type of interest

Nature and Wildlife Mountains